Running an independent and non-funded art space it's not a
need but a will. It is not necessary at all. It's rather an indulgence, a luxury.

What is the main purpose of this activity?

The main purpose of Uma Certa Falta de Coerência (A
Certain Lack of Coherence) is to bring people together around artists solo
projects and to explore the relations between artists while they take
control of the different roles: artist-artist, artist-producer, artist-public,
artist-supporter, artist-reviewer, and so on. Remember, “Artists must begin
helping themselves”.* But we're far from playing the musical chairs game.
The neighborhood also also receives our radiations.

Since the beginning we've challenged artists to
work and explore the very specific characteristics and conditions of our
gallery space and its surroundings. To test and state our running model is a purpose by it self.

How do you function?

Decisions are made on a daily practice when in the studio,
at the café, walking down the street or via Skype. The gallery space opens
on Saturdays or by appointment. We highly avoid the professionalization of the
project. We share the process with the artist. We get things done for fun.

What are the difficulties you have to face and what are
the obstacles you avoid by running your own space?

Managing time and travels are not such a big issue to call
it difficulty.

We don’t have a main objective as popularity, budget or
new venue.

We totally avoid paper work: we don’t apply to funds; we
pay a low rent but there's no contract; we pay for electricity under the
previous name in the contract; there is no commercial activity.

We also don't do what is not necessary. An example is
cleaning or renovating the old and moisty space. Any change in the space it has
to be introduced by a will from the artist. We could paint it white or yellow…
but only if necessary.

How do you see the future of independent art spaces in
Europe?

We’ve seen very different models of independent art spaces
and we’re sure that every of these dreams of a different future. From our insider
and non-academic point of view, the future of independent art spaces in Europe
is not much different from the one of Italian restaurants.

Is there a tradition of self-organisation among Portuguese
artists?

It is a fact that since 1999,
and with a peak in 2007, there have been an outstanding number of artist-run
activities in Porto. Strong echoes and important projects also happened in
Lisbon and Guimarães.